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Beale: Ready For My Return

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St George Illawarra Dragons utility Gerard Beale admits he is excited to make his long-awaited return ahead of the opening pre-season trial against a combined Illawarra Cutters and Mudgee Dragons outfit at WIN Jubilee Oval, Kogarah on Friday.

The New Zealand international was limited to only five appearances for the Red V last campaign after suffering a season-ending ACL injury against the Newcastle Knights at the very same venue.

Beale, 23, has been included in a 27-man squad named by Head Coach Steve Price and is counting down the hours until he can lace-up his boots once more,

“I’m really excited to be playing football again,” said Beale.

“I was stuck on the sidelines watching the boys in action for the majority of last season which was bittersweet as I wanted to be out there alongside them.

“I’ve had a great pre-season though these past few months and feel in good shape and ready to give it my all.

“There will be competition for places all across the field and I know the entire team are ready to show the coach what they’re capable of.”

This will be the first match for the “new-look” Dragons and the first opportunity for Red V Members and fans alike to see the squad in action over four 20-minute quarters.

Dragons new recruits Gareth Widdop, Sam Williams, Dylan Farrell, Mike Cooper, Matt Groat, Willie Mataka, Josh Ailaomai, Joel Thompson and Peter Mata’Utia will all be in action and get their first look at the Dragons home sheds at WIN Jubilee Oval, Kogarah.

Ben Creagh, Brett Morris, Jason Nightingale, Michael Witt and Dan Hunt were not considered for selection as they are carrying minor injuries.

Admission to WIN Jubilee Oval, Kogarah on Friday will be FREE for kids aged 14 years and younger while adults will be charged $5 at the gate on the day.